The Dive Pirates Foundation just completed its 4th annual major fundraiser, “The Pirates Ball,” at the Downtown Aquarium in Houston, Texas, netting almost $30,000 to be used to train, equip and fund a Caribbean scuba trip for those with disabilities, primarily those injured in the Iraqi War.

“I am so thankful for the Houston community for once again showing their trust and belief in us by supporting this worthy cause,” commented Barbara Thompson, chairperson for the event. “We set a record for 150 people, supporters from around the country came in formal attire with a touch of pirate regalia provided by our incredible EmCee Fox news anchor Jose Griñan, everyone really got into the spirit of the event.”

This year’s keynote speaker was a 2007 recipient, Sean Barr, USMC (ret), a quadriplegic who noted during his talk that “I know that I will always be paralyzed and rely on the wheelchair, but when I dive, it feels like I have all of my body back again. The sensation and experience is indescribable and I have Dive Pirates to thank for getting me back to the water that I have always loved.”

Among the guests at the Ball was Vicki Kaiser of Cayman Brac that attended to represent the island and its commitment to Dive Pirates. Vicki was one of 6 dive instructors that were instructed in 2007 to work with adaptive divers as a part of the ongoing relationship between Brac Reef Beach Resort, Reef Divers II and Dive Pirates.

“I came to show my support for Sean and the program, but I was blown away by the support of the Houston community to this cause and I can’t wait to come back for next year’s ball,” Kaiser added.

Scuba Schools International (SSI) has always been a part of Dive Pirates and this year was no exception. Randy Wright of the Dive Shop in Memphis represented the SSI management this year and was able to work with adaptive student Dawn Halfaker, Capt US Army (ret), last summer in Memphis with Dive Pirates.

“I loved working with Dive Pirates and I really want to encourage as many SSI facilities as possible to get on board with this great organization,” said Wright.
 

“We really want this to be a national organization with as many chapters as possible,” said Sophie Wimberley, Dive Pirates co-founder. “We will continue to work with SSI to make this a reality for as many disabled persons that want to learn to dive and take on this adventure.”

This year’s Dive Pirate adventure is planned for June 7 - 14, 2008 at the Brac Reef Beach Resort in Cayman Brac. Spots are still available for those who want to join the crew for $1975 for Divers and $1575 for non-divers, all-inclusive round trip from Houston, Texas. See www.divepirates.org for more details.